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Pub Date
10 Jun 2018

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Description

From Bestselling Author Peter Scottsdale Comes His First Children's Chapter Book For Ages 8 and Up It’s Christmas Eve and Nathan’s cat is wrecking the holidays by destroying the Christmas tree.

Fed up with Shadow’s antics, Dad wants the kitty out of the house – for good! So Nathan pleads for help in hope the magic of the holidays will allow him to keep his cat. In this enchanting tale (or should it be “tail?”), does Shadow change his misbehaving ways or will he ruin Christmas? Find out!

From Bestselling Author Peter Scottsdale Comes His First Children's Chapter Book For Ages 8 and Up It’s Christmas Eve and Nathan’s cat is wrecking the holidays by destroying the Christmas tree.

Description

From Bestselling Author Peter Scottsdale Comes His First Children's Chapter Book For Ages 8 and Up It’s Christmas Eve and Nathan’s cat is wrecking the holidays by destroying the Christmas tree.

Fed up with Shadow’s antics, Dad wants the kitty out of the house – for good! So Nathan pleads for help in hope the magic of the holidays will allow him to keep his cat. In this enchanting tale (or should it be “tail?”), does Shadow change his misbehaving ways or will he ruin Christmas? Find out!

Available Editions

EDITION

ISBN

9781726784061

PRICE

$0.99 (USD)

Links

Average rating from 51 members

Featured Reviews

Sonya H, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Combine two things I love (cats and Christmas), and I will read your book!
The Cat in the Christmas Tree is all about crazy cat antics that a cat can get up to when there’re decorations to destroy and there’s food to be eaten (and the cat in this book is a young one).
I’ve personally never experienced a destructive cat at Christmastime (they’ve been more inclined to sleep under the tree than attack it), but I do know one or two who I’m sure would behave like Shadow in this book!
A quick, fun read for the season.

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Susan J, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

Princess Fuzzypants here: I am not sure what it is about kittens and Christmas trees this year, but this is the second children’s book I read in the last week with a naughty kitty wreaking havoc on a poor defenceless tree. This one has a not so subtle lesson about cause and effect of our actions.
Shadow is a wild cat whose zoomies and antics have his human father on the verge of shipping him off to the SPCA. The final straw seems to be hs destruction of the family Christmas tree. Only the pleas of his young human stay the verdict until after the holidays. Shadow is not malicious. He is simply unthinking so when the humans are all in bed and he is about to attack the tree once more, the tree intervenes magically and shows Shadow the error of his ways.
He transports Shadow to a world where Christmas trees are alive and subject to the same rules of behavior as in the human world. Luckily, he learns the lessons and when he returns home, he is a changed kitten. He learns how his actions hurt the people he loves and promises to respect their feelings in the future.
It might be a teeny bit heavy handed for adults but likely just right for the young ones. I give it four purrs and two paws up.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Anna Maria G, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

A nice, cozy and heartwarming Christmas short stories about a naughty cat and how he changes his ways.
A good story for older children.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Sharon H, Educator

Recommends This Book

Strongly

I read this book with my daughter who is 10, she thoroughly enjoyed this story, although may have been slightly on the young side for her.
This is a nice story about a naughty cat and a Christmas tree, just as the title states. The story is a magical adventure taken by the cat thanks to the tree.
Would highly recommend for key Stage 1 children ages 5-8. Small words so perfect for a child to read out loud.

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Maryline D, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

The Cat in the Christmas Tree by Peter Scottsdale
A nice little story, easy to read, for kids around 8 - 10 years old.
A cat, Christmas décorations... what could go wrong!
Really well written and entertaining!
Thank you BooksGoSocial for the ARC for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Ann F, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

I loved this book!! Shadow sounds just like my cat when he was young, but I never threatened to take him to the animal shelter, that's where I got him from.. Cats and Christmas are so much fun! Thank you BooksGoSocial via NetGalley for the copy of this book. This is my honest opinion. Really cute book.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Kerri S, Librarian

Recommends This Book

Yes

Because this was a e-book, I was ill-prepared for how short (yet touching) this story was; wanted it to continue, loved the journey. Thank you for sharing.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

catherine h, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Strongly

I am all about cats, so I had to read this story, too! I could relate to cats and Christmas trees. Mine really love to play hide 'n' seek in mine during the season. I learned over the years NOT to but dangerous ornaments on the trees or even most lights (my oldest cat bit one in anger once and, of course, had me going nuts for days over whether he had swallowed any of the glass! He was under a vets care.) Cats are crazy little beasts and sweet as all get out and I love them as a pet parent. So reading this story brings back lots of terrific memories. I am betting children 7 and up who love cats and the holidays, will love this book. Good read!

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Reviewer 521474

Recommends This Book

Strongly

What an adorable book! This is perfect Christmas reading for children that will both entertain and teach them wonderful lessons regarding kindness, acceptance and good behavior with its anti-bullying message. I have an affinity for cats (have a rascally one myself....who thankfully has never been all that interested in ornaments or Christmas trees!) and this is a story that I would definitely read to children.
Shadow is getting on his family's nerves with his crazy cat behaviors (all of which any cat owner can completely relate to) and if he can't turn things around, there is a chance he'll be returned to the shelter! But, thanks to a magical Christmas Tree, Shadow has a chance to turn around his mischief-making ways to keep his family in this adorable holiday book.
Would definitely recommend for parents and teachers!

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Melissa D, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

A magical Christmas story about a cat and a Christmas tree! My kids enjoyed this story and got a few laughs as well at the naughty kitty. Great story!

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Janet P, Librarian

Recommends This Book

Strongly

I received a DIGITAL Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
From the publisher, as I do not regurgitate the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it.
From Bestselling Author Peter Scottsdale Comes His First Children's Chapter Book. For Ages 8 and Up It’s Christmas Eve and Nathan’s cat is wrecking the holidays by destroying the Christmas tree.
Fed up with Shadow’s antics, Dad wants the kitty out of the house – for good! So, Nathan pleads for help in hope the magic of the holidays will allow him to keep his cat. In this enchanting tale (or should it be “tail?”), does Shadow change his misbehaving ways or will he ruin Christmas? Find out!
Okay I love cats --- and I love cats and their love of trying to destroy Christmas trees!! This novella was adorable – I just wish that it had more illustrations! You CANNOT beat the rice, though: 99cents USD and $1.29 CAD is amazing!
🐈 🐈 🐈 🐈 🐈
🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄
NOTE: WE HAVE READ THIS EVERY BED TIME SINCE IT ARRIVED ... MY GOODREADS FEED IS "DATE-READ" TIRED :-)

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Clare O, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

This is a cute book for young children who are learning by example. The cat is used as a proxy for a cheeky kid who needs to learn to behave.
A young black cat plays with the family Christmas tree, breaking some ornaments. This is a cat household and we did not put up trees while the cats were young. So the parents need to assume some responsibility here I think. Overnight, while under threat of being sent away from his boy, the cat is taken for a snowy stroll by a magical Christmas tree, much like Scrooge and the ghostly experiences.
This is a good-hearted tale and we should all learn to respect trees... and others. The author lives in Canada and the book would work for most countries.
I downloaded an e-ARC from Net Galley and read it in a few minutes. This is an unbiased review.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Mischenko S, Educator

Recommends This Book

Yes

This is a short and sweet children's chapter book about a cat named Shadow who keeps getting into trouble. Shadow can't seem to resist the Christmas tree and often trashes out other parts of the house as well. Shadow is considered to be Nathan's cat and Nathan is often the one who's told that they are going to have to return the cat to the shelter so that he can be re-homed.
I thought the book was written well with only a few typos. My kids seemed to enjoy it, but I didn't appreciate the dad in the story who continuously threatens Nathan, the child, by telling him the cat is going back to the shelter if it doesn't shape up. I mean, I really don't see how a child can control a cat who wants to play. That's just how some cats are, especially when young, and Nathan was really worried about losing Shadow. So we didn't like that part of the story, but luckily Nathan's mom was a little more forgiving. The story turned out to have a very magical ending. We also enjoyed reading about the author and his cats afterward.
After we finished reading the book, my daughter went off to write her own little story about a cat who was causing trouble in a king's castle. She was very inspired by this story. Give this one a try!
4****
I's like to thank NetGalley for sharing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Kim T, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Strongly

This is an adorable book about a rowdy kitten and a magical Christmas Tree. This is a great way to teach small children about treating others with kindness. I recommend this to teacher and parents of smaller children
I received a copy of this book for NetGalley in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

kayden w, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Strongly

this book was very cool. it was different from most other books. the cat in the Christmas tree had a very strong morale. it was a short but good story. it's a great idea and I would pay $20 for this amazing book. it's most definitely 10/10

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Kate E, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

The Cat in the Christmas Tree is a very quick read. I think it would be enjoyed by chikdren younger than eight years of age. The writing is simple yet effective.
The theme of the tree being magical in nature was creative, as was the story line of the tree revealing important lessons to be learnt in a similar vein to A Christmas Carol..
The large tree being described as Forest, and the cat as Shadow were good. I am unclear why "Mast" was the name of the famiky tree - had it been Mas I would have assumed the latter part of "Christmas" .....perhaps it is plus the "t" from tree.....
The book overall is a pleasant read.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Rachel B, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

The Cat in the Christmas Tree is a middle-grade chapter book about a rambunctious cat named Shadow. There are some fantasy elements to this short but sweet tale of a badly behaving cat.
Justen and Sara are husband and wife and parents of their eight year old child, Nathan. They are also guardians of a black cat named Shadow. The story opens up on Christmas Eve, with Shadow running around the house, knocking over eggnog and climbing the curtains. Justen is frustrated and fed up with the cat, while Sara is more compassionate. Nathan absolutely adores his cat, and becomes upset when his father threatens to get rid of Shadow. Nathan makes a wish on the Christmas tree to keep Shadow away from it. As the night goes on, Shadow’s behavior continues to get him in trouble, and Justen convinces Sara that Shadow must be put up for adoption. But unbeknownst to them, the Christmas tree is indeed magical, and Shadow will be taught a lesson about his behavior.
When I started reading The Cat in the Christmas Tree, I thought it might be a story about having compassion and patience. It is that, but it’s also to help teach children boundaries. The magical Christmas tree helps Shadow understand why his behavior is bad and the consequences of bad behavior. This is a good lesson for young people and in my opinion it’s told in an age-appropriate manner, even if it isn’t subtle about it.
Shadow’s personality comes through the pages and reminded me of the cats I grew up with and the cats I have at home. The magical elements of a talking tree, among other things, adds a sweet layer to the story. I thought the fantasy part of the story was creatively done and would even like to read more about it (I’m being vague as to not spoil what happens in the story). My only complaint after reading is that I wish Justen received a bit more of a lesson, too. I understand that he was frustrated but I didn’t like him as a character that much. He could learn a bit from Nathan, I think!
Overall, a cute story that a young child who loves cats would enjoy, especially during the holidays. I would recommend this book to young readers.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Jenny H, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

This was a really cute story about a very naughty kitten. He learns how to be good from a magical Christmas tree after a little boy wishes for help.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Laura D, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

Lovely short story for 6-7 yo. Well written, with lovely descriptions throughout. My 10 yo daughter read it in one sitting and said it was a pleasant read but certainly aimed at a younger audience.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

charly m, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Strongly

A lively lovely tale of a nauğhty kitten and his frustrated family.
My 8 year old and 7 year old loved it.
I found it funny bearing a very close resemblance to a naughty child needing to learn it is a fun, heartwarming story of family and mischief.

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Martha E, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

This is a sweet “tail” with a message on behavior.
Shadow is a young cat who needs to some training. He is tempted to play with the Christmas decorations. Of course Christmas trees with hanging ornaments and hanging tinsel are a major attraction. Shadow has had several mischievous encounters knocking the tree and breaking ornaments. Young Nathan loves his kitty but Dad is ready to remove the cat because of its bad behaviors. Nathan makes a request for magical holiday help to save his cat. What can an enchanted tree do to teach Shadow better behaviors?
This is just a sweet little story where Mr. Scottsdale uses this very short story to share a message to youngsters about how their negative, sometimes just mischievous, actions impact others. The story shows that there are choices that can be made to not hurt others or the belongings of others.
I recommend this story as a nice Christmas (or anytime of year) story that can help teach caring manners to children.
Source: NetGalley.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Susan M, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Being a cat lover, I had to read this book. Shadow likes to have fun. He thinks that the Christmas tree is in the house for him to play in. However Nathan’s dad is tired from work. He has gotten tired of Shadow waking him up whenever Shadow wants food or to be petted. When Shadow tips over the Christmas tree, dad says the cat is going back to the shelter! Mom says let’s wait as this is Christmas Eve. Shadow decides to jump in the tree again when everyone has gone to sleep. Shadow is transported to Christmas tree land where Shadow learns how trees live. Will Shadow learn anything from this?
The author has written a lovely story introducing what rules are for. It also introduces bullying and what to do. I liked reading this book as you see how a family and cat learns how to live together. It’s a great story!
I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Jamie B, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

I read The Cat in the Christmas Tree with my son. He loved the cat, and he wanted to read it again. It's a hit with him! Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

January G, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

Cats in our Christmas tree is a yearly, seasonal battle in our home. This is a delightful little book that would make a great family read during the Christmas season. A lesson in behavior is also included in the tale.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Leyla J, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

A lovely, cute little book for young children, bit of the "Christmas Carole" about it with a modern message at the end. I did find the message did not quite flow with the story, and it did come as a surprise, but certainly a message that is very relevant today. Children will enjoy it, and the message will resound easily with them.

Additional Information

Available Editions

Links

Featured Reviews

Sonya H, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Combine two things I love (cats and Christmas), and I will read your book!
The Cat in the Christmas Tree is all about crazy cat antics that a cat can get up to when there’re decorations to destroy and there’s food to be eaten (and the cat in this book is a young one).
I’ve personally never experienced a destructive cat at Christmastime (they’ve been more inclined to sleep under the tree than attack it), but I do know one or two who I’m sure would behave like Shadow in this book!
A quick, fun read for the season.

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Susan J, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

Princess Fuzzypants here: I am not sure what it is about kittens and Christmas trees this year, but this is the second children’s book I read in the last week with a naughty kitty wreaking havoc on a poor defenceless tree. This one has a not so subtle lesson about cause and effect of our actions.
Shadow is a wild cat whose zoomies and antics have his human father on the verge of shipping him off to the SPCA. The final straw seems to be hs destruction of the family Christmas tree. Only the pleas of his young human stay the verdict until after the holidays. Shadow is not malicious. He is simply unthinking so when the humans are all in bed and he is about to attack the tree once more, the tree intervenes magically and shows Shadow the error of his ways.
He transports Shadow to a world where Christmas trees are alive and subject to the same rules of behavior as in the human world. Luckily, he learns the lessons and when he returns home, he is a changed kitten. He learns how his actions hurt the people he loves and promises to respect their feelings in the future.
It might be a teeny bit heavy handed for adults but likely just right for the young ones. I give it four purrs and two paws up.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Anna Maria G, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

A nice, cozy and heartwarming Christmas short stories about a naughty cat and how he changes his ways.
A good story for older children.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Sharon H, Educator

Recommends This Book

Strongly

I read this book with my daughter who is 10, she thoroughly enjoyed this story, although may have been slightly on the young side for her.
This is a nice story about a naughty cat and a Christmas tree, just as the title states. The story is a magical adventure taken by the cat thanks to the tree.
Would highly recommend for key Stage 1 children ages 5-8. Small words so perfect for a child to read out loud.

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Maryline D, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

The Cat in the Christmas Tree by Peter Scottsdale
A nice little story, easy to read, for kids around 8 - 10 years old.
A cat, Christmas décorations... what could go wrong!
Really well written and entertaining!
Thank you BooksGoSocial for the ARC for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Ann F, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

I loved this book!! Shadow sounds just like my cat when he was young, but I never threatened to take him to the animal shelter, that's where I got him from.. Cats and Christmas are so much fun! Thank you BooksGoSocial via NetGalley for the copy of this book. This is my honest opinion. Really cute book.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Kerri S, Librarian

Recommends This Book

Yes

Because this was a e-book, I was ill-prepared for how short (yet touching) this story was; wanted it to continue, loved the journey. Thank you for sharing.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

catherine h, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Strongly

I am all about cats, so I had to read this story, too! I could relate to cats and Christmas trees. Mine really love to play hide 'n' seek in mine during the season. I learned over the years NOT to but dangerous ornaments on the trees or even most lights (my oldest cat bit one in anger once and, of course, had me going nuts for days over whether he had swallowed any of the glass! He was under a vets care.) Cats are crazy little beasts and sweet as all get out and I love them as a pet parent. So reading this story brings back lots of terrific memories. I am betting children 7 and up who love cats and the holidays, will love this book. Good read!

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Reviewer 521474

Recommends This Book

Strongly

What an adorable book! This is perfect Christmas reading for children that will both entertain and teach them wonderful lessons regarding kindness, acceptance and good behavior with its anti-bullying message. I have an affinity for cats (have a rascally one myself....who thankfully has never been all that interested in ornaments or Christmas trees!) and this is a story that I would definitely read to children.
Shadow is getting on his family's nerves with his crazy cat behaviors (all of which any cat owner can completely relate to) and if he can't turn things around, there is a chance he'll be returned to the shelter! But, thanks to a magical Christmas Tree, Shadow has a chance to turn around his mischief-making ways to keep his family in this adorable holiday book.
Would definitely recommend for parents and teachers!

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Melissa D, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

A magical Christmas story about a cat and a Christmas tree! My kids enjoyed this story and got a few laughs as well at the naughty kitty. Great story!

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Janet P, Librarian

Recommends This Book

Strongly

I received a DIGITAL Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
From the publisher, as I do not regurgitate the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it.
From Bestselling Author Peter Scottsdale Comes His First Children's Chapter Book. For Ages 8 and Up It’s Christmas Eve and Nathan’s cat is wrecking the holidays by destroying the Christmas tree.
Fed up with Shadow’s antics, Dad wants the kitty out of the house – for good! So, Nathan pleads for help in hope the magic of the holidays will allow him to keep his cat. In this enchanting tale (or should it be “tail?”), does Shadow change his misbehaving ways or will he ruin Christmas? Find out!
Okay I love cats --- and I love cats and their love of trying to destroy Christmas trees!! This novella was adorable – I just wish that it had more illustrations! You CANNOT beat the rice, though: 99cents USD and $1.29 CAD is amazing!
🐈 🐈 🐈 🐈 🐈
🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄
NOTE: WE HAVE READ THIS EVERY BED TIME SINCE IT ARRIVED ... MY GOODREADS FEED IS "DATE-READ" TIRED :-)

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Clare O, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

This is a cute book for young children who are learning by example. The cat is used as a proxy for a cheeky kid who needs to learn to behave.
A young black cat plays with the family Christmas tree, breaking some ornaments. This is a cat household and we did not put up trees while the cats were young. So the parents need to assume some responsibility here I think. Overnight, while under threat of being sent away from his boy, the cat is taken for a snowy stroll by a magical Christmas tree, much like Scrooge and the ghostly experiences.
This is a good-hearted tale and we should all learn to respect trees... and others. The author lives in Canada and the book would work for most countries.
I downloaded an e-ARC from Net Galley and read it in a few minutes. This is an unbiased review.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Mischenko S, Educator

Recommends This Book

Yes

This is a short and sweet children's chapter book about a cat named Shadow who keeps getting into trouble. Shadow can't seem to resist the Christmas tree and often trashes out other parts of the house as well. Shadow is considered to be Nathan's cat and Nathan is often the one who's told that they are going to have to return the cat to the shelter so that he can be re-homed.
I thought the book was written well with only a few typos. My kids seemed to enjoy it, but I didn't appreciate the dad in the story who continuously threatens Nathan, the child, by telling him the cat is going back to the shelter if it doesn't shape up. I mean, I really don't see how a child can control a cat who wants to play. That's just how some cats are, especially when young, and Nathan was really worried about losing Shadow. So we didn't like that part of the story, but luckily Nathan's mom was a little more forgiving. The story turned out to have a very magical ending. We also enjoyed reading about the author and his cats afterward.
After we finished reading the book, my daughter went off to write her own little story about a cat who was causing trouble in a king's castle. She was very inspired by this story. Give this one a try!
4****
I's like to thank NetGalley for sharing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Kim T, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Strongly

This is an adorable book about a rowdy kitten and a magical Christmas Tree. This is a great way to teach small children about treating others with kindness. I recommend this to teacher and parents of smaller children
I received a copy of this book for NetGalley in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

kayden w, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Strongly

this book was very cool. it was different from most other books. the cat in the Christmas tree had a very strong morale. it was a short but good story. it's a great idea and I would pay $20 for this amazing book. it's most definitely 10/10

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Was this review helpful?

Kate E, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

The Cat in the Christmas Tree is a very quick read. I think it would be enjoyed by chikdren younger than eight years of age. The writing is simple yet effective.
The theme of the tree being magical in nature was creative, as was the story line of the tree revealing important lessons to be learnt in a similar vein to A Christmas Carol..
The large tree being described as Forest, and the cat as Shadow were good. I am unclear why "Mast" was the name of the famiky tree - had it been Mas I would have assumed the latter part of "Christmas" .....perhaps it is plus the "t" from tree.....
The book overall is a pleasant read.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Rachel B, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

The Cat in the Christmas Tree is a middle-grade chapter book about a rambunctious cat named Shadow. There are some fantasy elements to this short but sweet tale of a badly behaving cat.
Justen and Sara are husband and wife and parents of their eight year old child, Nathan. They are also guardians of a black cat named Shadow. The story opens up on Christmas Eve, with Shadow running around the house, knocking over eggnog and climbing the curtains. Justen is frustrated and fed up with the cat, while Sara is more compassionate. Nathan absolutely adores his cat, and becomes upset when his father threatens to get rid of Shadow. Nathan makes a wish on the Christmas tree to keep Shadow away from it. As the night goes on, Shadow’s behavior continues to get him in trouble, and Justen convinces Sara that Shadow must be put up for adoption. But unbeknownst to them, the Christmas tree is indeed magical, and Shadow will be taught a lesson about his behavior.
When I started reading The Cat in the Christmas Tree, I thought it might be a story about having compassion and patience. It is that, but it’s also to help teach children boundaries. The magical Christmas tree helps Shadow understand why his behavior is bad and the consequences of bad behavior. This is a good lesson for young people and in my opinion it’s told in an age-appropriate manner, even if it isn’t subtle about it.
Shadow’s personality comes through the pages and reminded me of the cats I grew up with and the cats I have at home. The magical elements of a talking tree, among other things, adds a sweet layer to the story. I thought the fantasy part of the story was creatively done and would even like to read more about it (I’m being vague as to not spoil what happens in the story). My only complaint after reading is that I wish Justen received a bit more of a lesson, too. I understand that he was frustrated but I didn’t like him as a character that much. He could learn a bit from Nathan, I think!
Overall, a cute story that a young child who loves cats would enjoy, especially during the holidays. I would recommend this book to young readers.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Jenny H, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

This was a really cute story about a very naughty kitten. He learns how to be good from a magical Christmas tree after a little boy wishes for help.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

Laura D, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

Lovely short story for 6-7 yo. Well written, with lovely descriptions throughout. My 10 yo daughter read it in one sitting and said it was a pleasant read but certainly aimed at a younger audience.

Recommends This Book

Yes

Was this review helpful?

charly m, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Strongly

A lively lovely tale of a nauğhty kitten and his frustrated family.
My 8 year old and 7 year old loved it.
I found it funny bearing a very close resemblance to a naughty child needing to learn it is a fun, heartwarming story of family and mischief.

Recommends This Book

Strongly

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Martha E, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

This is a sweet “tail” with a message on behavior.
Shadow is a young cat who needs to some training. He is tempted to play with the Christmas decorations. Of course Christmas trees with hanging ornaments and hanging tinsel are a major attraction. Shadow has had several mischievous encounters knocking the tree and breaking ornaments. Young Nathan loves his kitty but Dad is ready to remove the cat because of its bad behaviors. Nathan makes a request for magical holiday help to save his cat. What can an enchanted tree do to teach Shadow better behaviors?
This is just a sweet little story where Mr. Scottsdale uses this very short story to share a message to youngsters about how their negative, sometimes just mischievous, actions impact others. The story shows that there are choices that can be made to not hurt others or the belongings of others.
I recommend this story as a nice Christmas (or anytime of year) story that can help teach caring manners to children.
Source: NetGalley.

Recommends This Book

Yes

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Susan M, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Strongly

Being a cat lover, I had to read this book. Shadow likes to have fun. He thinks that the Christmas tree is in the house for him to play in. However Nathan’s dad is tired from work. He has gotten tired of Shadow waking him up whenever Shadow wants food or to be petted. When Shadow tips over the Christmas tree, dad says the cat is going back to the shelter! Mom says let’s wait as this is Christmas Eve. Shadow decides to jump in the tree again when everyone has gone to sleep. Shadow is transported to Christmas tree land where Shadow learns how trees live. Will Shadow learn anything from this?
The author has written a lovely story introducing what rules are for. It also introduces bullying and what to do. I liked reading this book as you see how a family and cat learns how to live together. It’s a great story!
I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Recommends This Book

Strongly

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Jamie B, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

I read The Cat in the Christmas Tree with my son. He loved the cat, and he wanted to read it again. It's a hit with him! Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

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Yes

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January G, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

Cats in our Christmas tree is a yearly, seasonal battle in our home. This is a delightful little book that would make a great family read during the Christmas season. A lesson in behavior is also included in the tale.

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Yes

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Leyla J, Reviewer

Recommends This Book

Yes

A lovely, cute little book for young children, bit of the "Christmas Carole" about it with a modern message at the end. I did find the message did not quite flow with the story, and it did come as a surprise, but certainly a message that is very relevant today. Children will enjoy it, and the message will resound easily with them.